BackgroundRotator cuff (RC) disorders are common musculoskeletal conditions causing shoulder pain and functional loss. While abdominal muscles aid in core stabilization and force transmission, their strength, endurance, and thickness in RC disorders remain underexplored.ObjectivesThis study aimed to examine the differences in abdominal muscle performance between individuals with RC pathology and healthy controls and to evaluate the relationship of these parameters with pain, disability and quality of life.Materials and MethodThis cross-sectional study evaluated 128 individuals (RC group: 64; control group: 64). The strength of the abdominal muscles was evaluated, and the McGill endurance test was performed. Muscle thickness was measured using ultrasound imaging. Shoulder-related pain, symptoms and functionality were assessed with Shoulder Pain and Disability Index and Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index.ResultsThe RC group exhibited significantly lower abdominal muscle strength and endurance compared to controls (p < 0.001). A moderate negative correlation was observed between abdominal muscle performance and clinical scores. According to ultrasound evaluations, patients with right-sided shoulder pathology (RSSP) had thinner EO (p < 0.001) and TrA (p = 0.016) muscles on the affected side, while left-sided shoulder pathology (LSSP) showed similar reductions in RA (p = 0.001), EO (p = 0.012), and TrA (p = 0.006) thickness. The RC group showed significantly greater percentage asymmetry in RA muscle thickness compared with controls (p = 0.02), while no statistically significant differences were found for EO, IO, or TrA muscles.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that decreased abdominal muscle function and thickness are associated with RC disorders. We emphasize that core stability exercises should be included in rotator cuff rehabilitation.

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effects of virtual reality therapy on pain, joint stiffness, physical function, balance, and fall risk in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Materials and Method: A total of fifty-four patients with primary knee osteoarthritis were randomly assigned into three equal groups. The first group received conventional physiotherapy, the second group received conventional physiotherapy combined with virtual reality-based training, and the third group received virtual reality-based training alone. All participants underwent fifteen sessions over a three-week period. Pain was evaluated using the visual analog scale; functional status, stiffness, and physical function were assessed with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index. Balance was assessed with the Berg Balance Scale, and fall risk was evaluated using the Tetrax posturography system. Results: Statistically significant improvements were found in all groups in terms of pain, stiffness, physical function, and balance after treatment (p < 0.001). However, pain, physical function, and total osteoarthritis index scores were significantly better in the first and second groups compared to the third group (p < 0.05). In the stiffness subscale, the first group showed greater improvement than the second group (p = 0.026). No significant differences were detected among the groups in balance or fall risk scores (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Although virtual reality therapy alone has positive effects on patients with knee osteoarthritis, it appears to be less effective than conventional physiotherapy or its combination with virtual reality. Virtual reality may serve as a supportive method within conventional rehabilitation programs. Keywords: Osteoarthritis; Pain; Virtual Reality; Accidental Falls.

The immune system is one of the most crucial systems in the human body, as it plays a vital role in destroying pathogens and foreign particles. Any disruption in immune system activity can lead to specific diseases called "opportunistic diseases," such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. In such cases, immunomodulatory agents are used. In this study, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from a single healthy donor were cultured and then stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which induces the release of inflammatory cytokines, to create an experimental model similar to those used in autoimmune diseases. For this purpose, PBMC cells were isolated from donor blood and cultured. Various concentrations were applied, and LPS was induced at the determined stimulating concentration (IC50) of 20,000 ng/ml. Cytotoxicity was then determined by applying monosodium glutamate (MSG), calcitriol, and coenzyme Q at effective concentrations (IC50) determined through preliminary experiments. According to the obtained data, a 70% (p<0.001) cytotoxic effect was observed in MSG-treated cells after 24 hours. 48 hours after substance application, MSG showed a 90% (p<0.001) cytotoxic effect on cells, while coenzyme Q10 showed an 89% (p<0.01) cytotoxic effect. Calcitriol did not exhibit inhibitory properties on PBMCs. 72 hours after the substances were applied, coenzyme Q10 showed a 94% cytotoxic effect on cells. 96 hours after the substances were applied to LPS-induced PBMC cells, no difference was observed between the groups. As a result, it was found that the substances applied may have different effects depending on time, in line with the findings obtained. Considering the effects of the substances on PBMCs, it is important to investigate their effects in more detail in some disease conditions where it is desired to inhibit immune system cells, so that they can be evaluated as an option in treatment. A full understanding of the effectiveness and safety of these substances is important for individualized treatment approaches.

This study investigated the relationship between Achilles tendon dimensions and balance in healthy young men. Eighty-eight healthy men aged 18-35 were included in the study. Dynamic balance was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and static balance was assessed using the Fall Index via the Tetrax Interactive Balance System. Achilles tendon thickness and cross-sectional area (CSA) were measured ultrasonographically with a linear probe at a frequency of 8-13 Hz. Mean Achilles tendon thickness was 0.51 ± 0.15 cm, CSA was 0.58 ± 0.22 cm², TUG test was 7.77 ± 1.55 s, and Fall Index score was 33.68 ± 21.58. CSA was greater, and TUG test and Fall Index scores were lower in active individuals (p < 0.001). The Achilles tendon CSA was negatively correlated with both the TUG test and the Fall Index (p < 0.001). The results of this study suggest that greater Achilles tendon CSA may be associated with better balance.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE:This study aims to examine the relationship between sexual dysfunction and walking ability, manual dexterity, disability, and quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis. METHODS:51 sexually active MS patients (28 females and 23 males) participated in the study. Demographic data were recorded for all patients. We used the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) to assess sexual function, the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) to determine disability, the SF-36 to assess quality of life, the Nine-Hole Peg test (9-HPT) to evaluate manual dexterity, and the Timed 25-Foot Walk test (T25FW) to assess walking ability. RESULTS:Sexual dysfunction was found in 92.9% of females and 73.9% of males. Common issues in females included decreased sexual desire, decreased sexual arousal, and lubrication and orgasm problems, while males reported erectile dysfunction, decreased sexual desire, and decreased intercourse satisfaction. Significant correlations were observed between FSFI and SF-36 scores in females and between IIEF scores and the 9-HPT, EDSS, and SF-36 scores in males. CONCLUSIONS:Sexual dysfunction is common among both male and female MS patients and is associated with disability, manual dexterity, and quality of life. Raising awareness is essential to support appropriate treatment approaches and improve the quality of life for these patients.

Introduction: We aimed to investigate whether the rate of sarcopenia is higher in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome and if an association exists between pseudoexfoliation syndrome, sarcopenia parameters, and chronic musculoskeletal pain. Materials and Method: A total of 96 enrolled patients were divided into two equal groups: “pseudoexfoliation syndrome group” and “no pseudoexfoliation syndrome group”. The variables were demographic characteristics, sarcopenia parameters (SARC-F, hand-grip strength, chair-rise test, gait speed), and pain parameters (having any chronic musculoskeletal pain, pain regions, and Visual Analog Scale-pain). Results: Comparison of sarcopenia and pain parameters between the two groups showed that SARC-F (all groups:p<0.001, 65-74 years:p<0,001, 75-84 years:p=0,015), chair rise test (all groups:p<0.001, 65-74 years:p=0,002, 75-84 years:p=0,003), and Visual Analog Scale-pain (all groups:p<0.001, 65-74 years:p=0,007, 75-84 years:p=0,003) scores were statistically significantly higher, while the gait speed (all groups:p<0.001, 65-74 years:p=0,004, 75-84 years:p=0,007) score was significantly lower in “pseudoexfoliation syndrome group” than in “no pseudoexfoliation syndrome group”. 60.4% of patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome had probable sarcopenia, and 83% had chronic musculoskeletal pain. A comparison of the two groups showed that the rate of sarcopenia (all groups:p<0.001, 65-74 years:p<0,001, 75-84 years: p=0,014) and the rate of having chronic musculoskeletal pain (all groups, 75-84 years: p=0.002) was significantly higher in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Conclusion: Our study results showed that most patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome had chronic musculoskeletal pain and probable sarcopenia. Although pseudoexfoliation syndrome and sarcopenia are problems of aging, further research is needed to explain the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the high rate of sarcopenia and chronic pain in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06121154 Keywords: Chronic Pain; Exfoliation Syndrome; Sarcopenia.

Background and Objectives: There is a lack of studies examining balance problems and Achilles tendon thickness in prediabetes despite their common occurrence in diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to evaluate Achilles tendon size and static and dynamic balance, as well as the role of the Achilles tendon in balance, in prediabetic patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 96 participants were divided into three groups: (1) the control group, consisting of participants without diabetes mellitus; (2) the prediabetes group; and (3) the diabetes mellitus group. Ultrasonographic measurements of Achilles tendon sizes (thickness, width and area) were performed. Dynamic balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale, and static balance (the Fall and Stability Indices) was assessed using a Tetrax device. The Self-Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs was utilized to identify neuropathic pain. Results: In the prediabetes group, the median dynamic balance scores [54.0 (51.0–56.0)] were lower than those of the control group [55.0 (54.0–56.0)] but higher than those of the patients with diabetes mellitus [52.50 (49.0–54.25)]; however, this difference did not reach statistical significance. The ultrasonographic measurements of the Achilles tendon size were similar among the three groups. On the other hand, in the prediabetes group, a positive correlation was observed between the bilateral Achilles tendon anterior–posterior thickness and Fall Index score (p = 0.045), while a negative correlation was found between the left Achilles tendon anterior–posterior thickness and the Berg Balance Score (p = 0.045). Conclusions: In prediabetes, neither Achilles tendon size nor static or dynamic balance appears to be significantly affected. However, in prediabetic patients, increased Achilles tendon thickness appears to be associated with increased risk of falls and decreased balance.

Altered corneal biomechanics in patients with diabetes may affect intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements. Although a relationship between IOP and glucose levels has been reported in diabetic and nondiabetic patients, the mechanism by which hyperglycemia influences IOP is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of hyperglycemia on IOP, corneal biomechanics, and anterior segment parameters during the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in nondiabetic patients. Twenty-one patients without DM who underwent OGTT were included in this study. A complete ophthalmologic examination was performed before the test. Blood glucose, insulin level, IOP (iCare rebound tonometer), Ocular Response Analyzer, and corneal topography (Pentacam) measurements were obtained at 0, 1, and 2 h during the OGTT. Data from the patients’ right eyes were included in the analysis. The mean age of the patients was 46.9 ± 11.0 years. There was a statistically significant difference in IOP between 1 and 2 h (p = 0.03) and a clinically significant difference between 0 and 1 h (p = 0.06). Corneal resistance factor was lower at 2 h than 1 h (p = 0.03), while central cornea thickness was increased at 1 h (p = 0.01) and 2 h (p = 0.05) compared to 0 h. There was positive partial correlation between hyperglycemia and IOP at 1 h (p = 0.049, r = 0.67). The positive partial correlation between IOP and glucose level suggests that acute hyperglycemia may lead to increased IOP. However, further research is needed to explain the mechanism of IOP elevation in the hyperglycemic phase during OGTT.

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677 C>T gene polymorphism in term infants born small (SGA), appropriate (AGA), and large for gestational age (LGA). Methods: The study comprised 165 newborns with SGA, LGA and AGA. Genomic DNA was isolated from the peripheral blood. Samples were genotyped for MTHFR 677 C>T gene polymorphisms using PCR-RFLP. Results: There was a statistically significant difference between the genotype and their allelic distribution of AGA, SGA, and LGA. The newborns carrying the TT genotype had higher birth weight than those carrying the CC and CT genotypes. The frequency of MTHFR 677 TT genotype and T allele was significantly higher and was found to be linked with a higher risk in LGA than in the AGA group. Conclusions: The MTHFR 677 C>T gene polymorphism can be used as a genetic marker in Turkish LGA newborns, but not in SGA.

Mental fatigue (MF) occurs when a demanding cognitive-task is performed over a long period of time, making it difficult to continue daily tasks and maintain balance. The aim of this investigation was to determine whether the Stroop test induces mental fatigue and to examine its effects on static balance. The study is a quasi-experimental design with pre-post testing. Twenty participants (19-44) were included. Static posturography was used to evaluate balance at baseline following a 25-min relaxation period of rest and in the MFC (mental-fatigue condition) following the induction of MF with the Stroop test. The other measurements were the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The study found that mental fatigue significantly increased at MFC compared to baseline, as indicated by MFI (p=.031) and FSS (p=.007) results with moderate effect sizes (d = 0.52, d = 0.67, respectively). Similarly, the study found a statistically significant increase in mental fatigue as measured by VAS results (p=.000, d = 0.95). However, the study did not find any statistically significant impairment in static balance due to mental fatigue in healthy young subjects. The results suggest that the Stroop test can induce mental fatigue, but it does not impair static balance.

Osteoporosis is a common age-related skeletal disease, characterized by changes in the microarchitectural structure of bone tissue and decreased bone mass, especially affecting postmenopausal women. Genetic and environmental factors affecting bone metabolism play a role in the development of osteoporosis. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is an important enzyme involved in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine. Genetic variations in the MTHFR gene lead to impaired function or inactivation of this enzyme. A decrease in MTHFR enzyme activity and an increase in homocysteine levels affect bone metabolism. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between C677T and A1298C polymorphisms and osteoporosis in Turkish postmenopausal women. DNA samples were extracted from 200 volunteers. The PCR-RFLP technique was used to identify the MTHFR gene polymorphisms C677T and A1298C. The statistical significance of the analysis's results was assessed. C677T genotype and allele frequency distributions were not statistically different between postmenopausal osteoporosis and healthy control groups (p = 0.249, p = 0.754), while A1298C genotype and allele frequency distributions were found to be statistically significant (p = 0.002, p = 0.013). The results of our study showed that the A1298C polymorphism may be a genetic factor associated with osteoporosis in this specific population. However, the C677T polymorphism did not show a significant connection. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the genetic basis of osteoporosis, future research with larger sample sizes and the consideration of additional genetic and environmental factors is essential. Additionally, it is crucial to account for ethnic disparities, gene-gene interactions, and gene-environment interplays. These insights can inform the development of personalized preventive and therapeutic strategies for individuals at risk of osteoporosis in diverse populations.

Objective: Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and its receptors are involved in various sexual functions, particularly in smooth muscle regulation and vascular responses. However, the role of S1P and its receptors in premature ejaculation (PE) remains unclear. This study investigates the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the S1PR1, S1PR2, and S1PR3 genes and plasma S1P levels in individuals with PE. Materials and Methods: The study included 100 individuals with PE and 100 healthy controls recruited from urology and psychiatry clinics. DNA was isolated from blood samples, and PCR was used to identify SNPs in the S1PR1 (rs2038366), S1PR2 (rs56357614), and S1PR3 (rs7022797) genes. Plasma S1P levels were measured using ELISA. Results: A significant association was observed between the heterozygous GT genotype of the S1PR1 gene and an increased risk of PE (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.215-4.168, p = 0.0099). No significant associations were found between S1PR2 or S1PR3 polymorphisms and PE. Plasma S1P levels were significantly lower in the PE group (median 253.25 ng/L) compared to the control group (median 430.82 ng/L) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: S1PR1 gene polymorphism and reduced plasma S1P levels may be linked to the pathophysiology of PE. In contrast, S1PR2 and S1PR3 do not appear to be associated. Further research with larger samples is needed to confirm these findings.

OBJECTIVES To demonstrate cerebral arterial flow volume changes during the hypothyroid, euthyroid, and hyperthyroid phases and comparing ( between laboratory findings and cerebral arterial flow changes with carotid-vertebral duplex Doppler ultrasound (CVA-DUSG) in subclinical Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) patients. METHODS According to the TSH level, 3 groups were constructed between patient cases. Group 1 (n=29) was the subclinical hyperthyroid group. In this group, the TSH level was between 0.0005 and 0.3 IU/ml. Group 2 (n=175) was the euthyroid group. TSH level in this group was between 0.3 and 4.2 IU/ml. Group 3 (n=76) was the subclinical hypothyroid group. In this group, the TSH level was above 4.2 IU/ml. The control-group (group 4) (n=71) included healthy people. In this group, the TSH level was between 0.3 and 4.2 IU/ml. After obtaining at least three consecutive waves from the bilateral internal cerebral artery and bilateral vertebral artery, volume flows were calculated using CVA-DUSG. Volume flows were calculated as peak systolic velocity + end diastolic velocity/2 × mean arterial diameter. The mean ICA(Internal Carotid Artery) and VA(Vertebral Artery) diameter was measured per ICA and VA. Total cerebral artery flow volume was defined as right ICA + right VA flow volume and left ICA + left VA flow volume. We also demonstrated topographic cerebral artery blood flow changes. Total ICA flow volume was used to assess the anterior part of the brain, total VA flow volume was used to evaluate the posterior part of the brain, right ICA + right VA flow volume was used to assess the right part of the brain, and left ICA + left VA flow volume was used to verify the left part of the brain. RESULTS There were significant differences between RVA(Right Vertebral Artery) flow volume, LICA (Left Internal Carotid Artery) flow volume, total flow volume, TSH, and T3 and T4 levels in all groups according to the Dunn's multiple comparison test.(p<0.001) Mean TSH level was 0.03 (0.005-0.06) IU/ml in group 1, 2.8 (1.8-3.97) IU/ml in group 2, 7.32 (6.14-9.93) IU/ml in group 3, and 1.76 (1.17-2.49) IU/ml in the control group. The mean T3 level was 4.18 (3.55-5.38) in group 1, 2.88 (2.63-3.16) in group 2, 2.82 (2.49-3.15) in group 3, 3.14 (2.92-3.15) in the control group. The mean T4 level was 1.92 (1.29-2.5) in group 1, 1.16(1.03-1.31) in group 2, 1.01 (0.91-1.16) in group 3, 1.12 (0.97-1.30) in the control group (group 4). Mean total flow volume was 793 (745-898) ml/min in group 1, 742 (684.25-822.5) ml/min in group 2, 747 (692-824) ml/min in group 3, and 700 (673-675) ml/min in the control group. We also demonstrated topographic cerebral arterial volume flow changes with CVA-DUSG. There was a significant difference among all groups in the right and anterior parts of the brain (p < 0.001), and there was a significant difference between groups 1 and 4 in the left part of the brain (p = 0.009). CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that total cerebral arterial volume flow increased in the hyperthyroid phase of subclinical HT cases without any internal carotid and vertebral artery diameter changes compared with the euthyroid and hypothyroid phases of subclinical HT and healthy cases. We also verified topographic cerebral arterial blood flow changes in subclinical HT cases with a real-time, easily applicable modality (CVA-DUSG) that does not include X-ray or contrast agents. There was a significant difference between all groups in the right and anterior parts of the brain and there was a significant difference between groups 1 and 4 in the left part of the brain.

OBJECTIVE:The popularity of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (CARDS) secondary to COVID-19 infection is increasing day by day. In this study, we aimed to retrospectively evaluate the possible cardiac effects in our CARDS patients treated with IVIG.METHODS:Demographic and clinical characteristics, mortality, sequential electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, cardiac markers, and other laboratory parameters of CARDS patients who received IVIG treatment were recorded.RESULTS:The mean age of the patients was 68.7±13.6%, and 70.5% were female. The mean number of days of hospitalization in the intensive care unit was 18.2±9.7, and the mortality rate was recorded as 35.2%. No pathological rhythm or ischemic change was observed in sequential ECG follow-ups. However, in consecutive ECO follow-ups, the sPAP values at the treatment end were numerically lower, although not statistically significant.CONCLUSION:Our study suggests that IVIG therapy may be used safely in COVID-19 patients with cardiovascular side effects. However, due to the high risk of coagulopathy in these patients, the use of IVIG therapy in COVID-19 infection should be monitored with close monitoring, as it may increase the potential for cardiovascular risk. Furthermore, monitoring cardiac parameters are also essential as it may predict high cardiovascular risk in patients. For this reason, patients need lower infusion rates, steroid combination, adequate hydration, and effective anticoagulation therapy to avoid these side effects.

Giriş: Bu çalışmanın amacı 1- tip 2 diyabet ile femoral kartilaj kalınlığı ve diz osteoartriti arasındaki ilişkiyi belirlemek, 2- bu ilişki üzerine beden kitle indeksi, abdominal bel çevresi, HbA1c gibi faktörlerin etkisini araştırmaktır. Yöntem: Bu çalışmaya toplam 126 kadın hasta kabul edilerek, hastalar diyabet varlığı (Diyabet grubu) ve yokluğuna (Kontrol grubu) göre iki gruba ayrıldı. Yaş, HbA1c, beden kitle indeksi, abdominal bel çevresi, vizüel analog skala, yürüme hızı, Kısa Form-36, Kellgren Lawrance Skalası ve ultrasonografik distal femoral kartilaj kalınlık ölçümü çalışmanın değişkenleri idi. Bulgular: İki grup arasında femoral kartilaj kalınlığı arasında bir fark saptanmadı, ne HbA1c ne de vücut kitle indeksi ve bel çevresi değerleri her 2 grupta da femoral kartilaj kalınlığı ile korelasyon göstermedi. Kontrol grubunda hem beden kitle indeksi(r=0.422) hem de bel çevresi(r=0.423) Kellgren skorları ile korelasyon gösterdi. Diyabet grubunda ise hem HbA1c(r=0.404), hem de beden kitle indeksi(r=0.696) ile Kellgren skorları arasında korelasyon saptanmakla birlikte, abdominal bel çevresi (r=0.791) ile Kellgren skorları arasındaki korelasyon daha güçlü düzeyde idi. Sonuç: Tip 2 diyabet ve diz osteoartriti arasında güçlü bir ilişki saptanmıştır ancak tip 2 diyabet ile ultrasonografik femoral kartilaj kalınlığı ölçümü arasında bir ilişki saptanmamıştır. Ayrıca tip 2 diyabet ve osteartritin arasındaki ilişkiye, abdominal obezite, HbA1c ve beden kitle indeksinden daha fazla katkı yapıyor görünmektedir.

ABS TRACT Objective:There is a paucity of data pertaining the quality and reliability of information presented on YouTube about childhood disabilities, such as cerebral palsy (CP).The aims were to evaluate both characteristics and quality of CP YouTube video content presented in English, and to identify criteria that can be important for selecting high quality and reliable informational CP videos.Material and Methods: YouTube was searched using the keyword "cerebral palsy" in January-2023.151 videos were included to the study.Video metrics such as number of likes, comments, video duration were analysed and videos were divided into two groups as informational (n=63), and experimental (n=88).The quality, reliability, and popularity of informational videos were evaluated with Global Quality-Score, modified DISCERN score, and Video Power-Index.Results: While 41% of informational videos were low quality, 27% were high quality, 32% were moderate quality, considered as acceptable.Only information provider (p<0.001) and DISCERN-scores of videos (low-moderate quality: p=0.001, low-high quality: p<0.001) were different according to quality level.DISCERN scores increased with quality level.93% of videos which was uploaded by physicians were high-moderate quality.This rate was 88% for official associations, 56% for physical therapists and 66% for patients or families, 16% for non-specified people.Conclusion: The quality of more than half of informational YouTube videos (59%) on CP were considered as acceptable.According to our study results, to make appropriate CP videos in YouTube platform, the videos which were uploaded by a physician or an official association should be selected.

BACKGROUND:The primary worry of parents/caregivers in relation to fever is the potential for their child to experience a seizure as a result. The literature suggests that parents/caregivers need to be informed about febrile convulsion. Thus, this study sought to develop the 'Febrile Convulsion Knowledge Scale for Parents/Caregivers'. DESIGN AND METHODS:It is a methodological study comprising 984 parents/caregivers who were accessible online between 07/04/2021 and 30/06/2022. After creating the scale item pool's construction, expert opinions were sought to evaluate the scale, and a content validity analysis was conducted. Subsequent analysis included exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, Cronbach's Alpha, and a test-retest reliability assessment of the scale data. RESULTS:The scale was found to consist of 8 items and 3 factors according to the factor analyses. Exploratory factor analysis indicated that the scale explained 72.783% of the variance. The scale's reliability analysis produced a Cronbach's Alpha score of 0.679, indicating good internal consistency, and it was consistent with test-retest measures (t = -0.660, p = 0.514). CONCLUSIONS:It has been determined that the scale is a valid and reliable scale for evaluating the knowledge of parents/caregivers regarding febrile convulsions. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS:It is advisable for pediatric nurses to routinely use the devised scale with families of children who are vulnerable to febrile convulsion and impart instruction based on the findings derived from the scale.

Background/Aim: Considering the effects of inflammation on fibromyalgia and the small intestine, we hypothesize that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to inflammation and affect vitamin B12 and ferritin levels in patients with fibromyalgia. The objectives were: 1) to compare the levels of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and ferritin in patients with fibromyalgia and patients who have local painful conditions, and 2) to evaluate the correlation of vitamin D levels with vitamin B12 and ferritin levels. Methods: The records of 299 patients with fibromyalgia (274 female, 25 male) and 128 patients with local painful conditions (114 female, 14 male) between April 2019 and 2020 were examined, including measurements of 25-hydroxy vitamin D, vitamin B12, ferritin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein. Results: The levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D were low in both groups, with levels below 30 ng/ml in 90.3% of all patients. However, there was no significant difference in vitamin B12 and ferritin levels between the two groups, and the levels of these markers were within normal limits in both groups. Correlation analysis showed that vitamin D levels were significantly correlated with vitamin B12 (P<0.001, r=0.211) and ferritin (P=0.005, r=0.337) levels in patients with fibromyalgia but not in the other group. Conclusion: Consistent with our hypothesis, an association was found between vitamin D levels and vitamin B12 and ferritin levels in fibromyalgia. However, this correlation was not found in patients with local painful conditions.